the Challenge of Impatience in New Jiu-Jitsu Students

One of the most important lessons you can impart to your students is that impatience is their greatest adversary in learning jiu-jitsu. By practicing on both sides, they not only develop better technique but also learn the value of patience. It’s crucial for students to understand that skipping steps or focusing on just one side in an effort to hasten progress can actually slow down their overall development.

TL;DR: Teaching new jiu-jitsu students to practice techniques on both sides not only builds skill but also instills patience, a vital attribute in today’s fast-paced world dominated by short attention spans.

The Dilemma of Short Attention Spans

In our modern era, where smartphones and digital media constantly vie for our attention, it’s common for beginners in jiu-jitsu, particularly white belts, to experience boredom and a lack of focus. This challenge is amplified in the training environment, where mastering techniques requires sustained attention and dedication.

The Double-Sided Training Approach

A practical way to counteract this issue is to emphasize practicing techniques on both the right and left sides. This approach has multiple benefits, with a key one being that it subtly teaches students that learning is a gradual process. For instance, getting just ten repetitions on each side is far from sufficient for mastering a technique. This needs to be a constant reminder for students – mastering jiu-jitsu techniques takes time and patience, especially when training is balanced on both sides.

Conclusion:

In summary, while the allure of quick results in our fast-paced world is strong, it’s essential for new jiu-jitsu students to understand the importance of patience in their journey. By consistently practicing on both sides and understanding the reasons behind it, they can overcome the urge for immediate mastery and set themselves up for long-term success in the art of jiu-jitsu.